Once upon a time, the Heathen Gods agreed to adopt each a particular
tree into their patronage. Jupiter chose the Oak; Venus was pleased
to name the Myrtle; Apollo pitched upon the Laurel; Cybele took the
Pine; and Hercules the Poplar. Pallas being present, expressed her
surprise at their fancy, in making choice of trees that bore nothing.
Oh, says Jupiter, the reason of that is plain enough, for we would not
be thought to dispense our favours with any mercenary view. You may do
as you please, says she, but let the Olive be my tree; and I declare
my reason for choosing it is, because it bears plenty of noble useful
fruit. Upon which the Thunderer, putting on a serious composed gravity,
spoke thus to the Goddess: Indeed daughter, it is not without cause
that you are so celebrated for your wisdom; for unless some benefit
attend our actions, to perform them for the sake of glory is but a
silly business.